Even though the Channel Tunnel linking the UK to mainland Europe has been open for 30 years, there still seems to be abundant confusion between the two popular train services that use it – LeShuttle (formerly Eurotunnel Le Shuttle) and Eurostar. Not sure which is which, or how to choose between the two options? It really depends on where you want to go and how you want to travel. Below we clear up some points of confusion…
Are LeShuttle & Eurostar the same company?
No – LeShuttle and Eurostar are completely different companies but share the use of the Channel Tunnel. LeShuttle is operated by Getlink, the company which owns and operates the Channel Tunnel. Eurostar is a customer of Getlink and runs its passenger trains through the tunnel, on the same tracks as LeShuttle.
Where can I board?
LeShuttle’s UK boarding point is in Folkestone, Kent.
Eurostar currently runs from St Pancras International, London.
Where can I go?
The main Eurostar routes go to Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and Rotterdam, with some seasonal routes and connections across France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany.
LeShuttle runs solely between Folkestone and Calais.
By foot or by vehicle?
Travelling on foot is great if you’re visiting a busy city for the weekend, but driving might be more suitable for a longer trip and allows for greater baggage allowances.
Eurostar trains are for foot passengers only, so are ideal if you don’t need or want a vehicle for your trip.
LeShuttle carries freight and all forms of vehicle, including cars, motorbikes, campervans, caravans, coaches and lorries. You cannot travel as a foot passenger on LeShuttle, but you are able to take a bicycle.
Animals
Only assistance dogs are allowed on Eurostar trains.
LeShuttle allows you to travel with a pet, charging £22 each way for dogs, cats and ferrets (assistance dogs are exempt), whilst rabbits, rodents and birds travel free, providing you have the necessary paperwork.
Journey length
LeShuttle takes just 35 minutes between Folkestone and Calais.
Eurostar takes from 2h16m to reach Paris from London, and 1h53m to Brussels.
Frequency
LeShuttle currently runs up to 53 shuttle departures from Folkestone each day. The busiest day of 2023 was March 31st on which 7,858 passenger vehicles were transported on LeShuttle from Folkestone to Calais.
Eurostar currently runs around 14 services a day from London to Paris (approx 1 per hour during operating hours).
For more information please visit www.leshuttle.com
